Cytology obtained through minimally invasive needle collection from a canine patient offers a rapid and relatively inexpensive preliminary diagnosis for various medical conditions. This technique involves inserting a thin needle into a mass or lesion to collect cells, which are then examined microscopically. For example, it can distinguish between an inflammatory process and a neoplastic one, helping guide further diagnostic testing and treatment.
This diagnostic method provides valuable information for timely clinical decision-making, impacting prognosis and treatment strategies. It minimizes patient discomfort compared to surgical biopsies and offers a quicker turnaround time for results, allowing for rapid initiation of appropriate therapy. Historically, diagnoses often relied on more invasive procedures, but the development and refinement of this technique has revolutionized veterinary diagnostics, particularly in oncology and soft tissue disease.
